Challenges exist for both buyers, when trying to source competitive goods and services easily, and suppliers for getting their business noticed by procurement specialists within BHP. Being a small business in remote regions can be challenging for small businesses as they are often competing with major vendors and experience difficulty showcasing their supplies to the right people.

For instance, Proton Power, a Kambalda supplier registered in March 2023, accessed BHP supply opportunities after attending a Local Buying Program networking event. This connection allowed Proton Power to supply specialised high-voltage equipment to the Kambalda Nickel Concentrator, saving site time and money.

Buyers see benefits from using local businesses through providing site with faster response times, reduced transportation costs, minimised down time for machinery and production, customisation and flexibility which lead to local innovation.

“Not only are we securing more work with BHP, but because of the networking at Local Buying Program events in Kambalda and Kalgoorlie, we are now getting work enquiries and securing more work from all over the Goldfields.”
Patrick Lloyd | Director, Proton Power (Kambalda).